As 65 children aged between four and nine from across Victoria tucked into baked potatoes at Donegan's Farm in Gordon yesterday, Ballarat police Sergeant John Moloney said the four-day camp proved

a highly rewarding experience for about 25 officers who took part each year, as well as providing escapism for those touched by cancer.

"A lot of them (police) are here in their own time because it's so rewarding," he said.

"We spend 12 months organising it and just look so forward to it each year because you put so many smiles on so many faces.

"You really realise how lucky we are and how tough some families do it."

Jaime Clarke, programs manager at children's cancer support service Challenge, said the camp was one of the most popular offered by the organisation throughout the year and invaluable to a family's

morale at a tough time in their lives.

"They get a real thrill out of having the police here in their uniforms the whole time, I think it's like having their heroes come down to their level," she said.

"We have got kids here who are having treatment, some who have finished treatment and siblings of kids with cancer.

"It just gives them a chance to see others in similar situations and they are just able to enjoy themselves and be kids again.

"And it's a good chance for parents to have a break."

Ms Clarke said throughout the four days, which includes staying at Sovereign Hill, motorbike, rides, plane trips, swimming, dancing, playground visits and plenty of pizza and McDonald's, the children's

illnesses are not referred to.

Clutching a fluffy chicken at Donegan's yesterday after a sheep shearing demonstration, 5-year-old Finn from Wodonga said he preferred the poultry.

"It (shearing) made me spew, it was gross, I didn't like it. I like the ducks and little chickens."